Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridium difficile and ESBL-producing Escherichia coli in the home and community: assessing the problem, controlling the spread (2006)

The purpose of this report is to provide a source of information on three “emergent” strains of bacteria, and their significance in the home and community. It discusses the links between hospital-acquired infection and community-acquired infection with these organisms, and also reviews the evidence base for the information given. It outlines in easily understood language the chain of infection, survival of the organism in the environment and people at risk in the community and home environment. There is a risk-based approach to reducing transmission in the home and community. The report is a useful tool for health professionals in the community and those working in the hospital settings who have a responsibility for advising patients, prior to discharge on hygiene measures related to their particular health problems. The appendices contain material that can be used by health professionals and others to brief consumers. It summarises the key data on each organism, together with an “advice sheet” containing practical guidance on what to do when there is a risk of infection transmission in the home. This document was prepared as a special project by the IFH. The first draft of the document was prepared by Professor SF Bloomfield. An expert group comprising Professor Bloomfield, Professor BD Cookson, Dr FR Falkiner, Professor C Griffith and V Cleary met in London in March 2006 to review, discuss and develop the review, and agree on final content.